Brodies LLP is renowned for its expertise in the renewables and living sectors, often playing a key role in major Scottish infrastructure projects, particularly those in environmentally sensitive areas. Neil Collar, praised for his ‘unrivalled knowledge’ of planning law, handles complex issues including land purchases, listed buildings, and conservation areas. He co-leads the practice with Elaine Farquharson-Black, who is highly respected for her expertise in housebuilding. Additionally, Karen Hamilton advises local authorities on significant infrastructure projects and has a strong presence in the transport, build-to-rent, and renewables industries.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Karen Hamilton is an outstanding lawyer. She delivers quality advice in a calm and reassuring manner. She drives transactions forward and is always looking for practical solutions to any problems which arise.’
‘A very competent and capable team that is very professional and efficient. In the top league of planning teams in Scotland with real strength in depth. ’
‘Neill Collar has unrivalled knowledge of the law and is capable of advisory and advocacy roles at a high level. Elaine Farquharson Black is peerless as an advisor and strategist and has masterminded many court successes.’
‘Brodies is a standout firm when it comes to planning law in Scotland, with an experienced team and outstanding individuals.’
‘Elaine Farquharson-Black is an exceptional lawyer and one of the most experienced solicitors in all aspects of planning law and has an outstanding knowledge of all aspects of the development market in Scotland.’
‘Neil Collar is very proactive and responds quickly to complex and unusual issues arising from planning disputes.'
‘The team give a logical and sensible approach to all planning matters. They know what they are talking about and understand the commercial reality for developers.’
‘Neil Collar is so knowledgeable and you know you are in good hands when he is advising on all planning matters. His experience and understanding come into their own on technical issues and he helps face challenges in a realistic and sensible manner. ’
Key clients
- CALA
- Stewart Milne Group
- Muir Homes Limited
- AS Homes
- Mowi Scotland Limited
- Glasgow Airport Limited
- Energiekontor
- Edinburgh International Business Gateway
Work highlights
- Advised Energiekontor on wind farm planning appeals, obtaining planning permission for two sites, totalling 98 MW of electricity generation capacity.
- Successfully appealed for planning permission on behalf of Muir Homes and Stewart Milne Group for the construction of a new grade-separated junction on the A9 trunk road at Auchterarder, facilitating additional home construction in the settlement.
- Advised North Lanarkshire Council on the promotion of a compulsory purchase order (CPO) to enable the demolition of three flat blocks and the development of 72 new affordable homes in Cumbernauld, including preparations for a public inquiry in 2024.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Karen Hamilton
Brodies LLP
Elaine Farquharson-Black
Brodies LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Neil Collar, Elaine Farquharson-Black